The member representing Ideato Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere has provided an update on the efforts to address the devastating Umuchima gully erosion that has plagued the Ideato nation.
The lawmaker reassures his people, stating that hope is not lost on rescuing his people from the erosion menace.
He stressed that though availability of funds was a major problem, it was surmountable.
According to Ugochinyere, the federal government had taken notice of the crisis by including funding for the site in the 2024 budget, though the allocated fund was paltry and may not be sufficient to fully resolve the issue.
Nonetheless, Ugochinyere noted that a comprehensive budgetary provision for the Umuchima erosion intervention has been discussed, which he considered a significant step forward, as previous administrations had largely ignored the plight of Ideato people .
Ugochinyere further revealed that preliminary discussions with stakeholders and the contractor have commenced, with soil testing and other preparatory work already underway at the site.
The engineers, he added, are currently working on the design for the remediation project, laying the groundwork for more substantial interventions .
While the initial budgetary allocation is a positive development, Ugochinyere acknowledges that the availability of sufficient funding remains a significant challenge. He has emphasized the need for continued advocacy and pressure on the federal government to ensure that adequate resources are dedicated to this critical project .
He, however, appealed to the Imo State government to fulfil its promise of constructing the Orlu-Akokwa road, which he believes could have mitigated the severity of the Umuchima gully erosion had it been completed.
The lawmaker urges all stakeholders who care about the Ideato nation to join the effort to rescue the land from this environmental disaster. He has emphasized the need for a collaborative approach, involving both the federal and state governments, to find a lasting solution to the Umuchima gully erosion crisis .
According to Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the Umuchima gully erosion has posed an existential threat to the entire Ideato nation, with the potential to decimate residential buildings, businesses, and critical infrastructure.
Whatever be the case, the inclusion of funding in the 2024 budget and the commencement of preliminary work are positive steps, but sustained efforts and adequate resources will be crucial to addressing this environmental challenge and safeguarding the future of the Ideato people.
